Malwarebytes has established a solid reputation in the realm of cybersecurity, primarily for its antivirus capabilities that safeguard devices against various threats. With the introduction of Malwarebytes Ultimate, the company expands its offerings into a comprehensive security suite, which includes VPN protection and a robust identity theft remediation service. However, while the identity theft system powered by TransUnion is comparable to those offered by several competitors, it falls short in terms of the extensive security features available in rival products. For instance, Bitdefender Ultimate Security distinguishes itself by merging identity protection from TransUnion with an award-winning security suite, while Norton 360 With LifeLock enhances its already impressive suite with a highly feature-rich identity system. Although Malwarebytes is a competent player in this space, Bitdefender and Norton have earned the distinction of Editors’ Choice winners.
How Much Does Malwarebytes Ultimate Cost?
When incorporating identity protection, the cost of a security suite typically escalates. Malwarebytes Ultimate begins at a list price of 9.99 per year, which provides security for a single device. For those looking to protect three devices, the cost rises to 9.99, while five devices will set you back 9.99. If you require protection for 10 or 20 devices, the prices are 9.99 and 9.99, respectively. This coverage extends to devices operating on Windows, macOS, Android, or iOS.
At the top two tiers, covering 10 or 20 devices, the subscription includes identity protection for two adults and up to 10 children, along with personal data removal services for two individuals. However, these prices are somewhat elevated compared to competitors. For example, ESET Home Security Ultimate offers a five-pack of licenses for 9.99, Bitdefender Ultimate Security is priced at 9.99, and Webroot Premium is available for 9.99 at a similar level. The 9.99 price point for Malwarebytes is notably higher.
This trend continues at the 10-device level, where a subscription for Malwarebytes costs 9.99, while Webroot charges 9.99, ESET 4.99, Norton 360 With LifeLock Select 9.99, and Aura offers a competitive 4. Furthermore, Malwarebytes Ultimate caps at 9.99 for 20 devices, whereas Bitdefender allows protection for 25 devices at 9.99. For those needing broader coverage, McAfee+ provides protection for all devices at 9.99, and Norton 360 With LifeLock Ultimate Plus is available for 9.99.
Malwarebytes also offers two lower-tier bundles with significantly fewer identity protection features. The Essential tier ranges from .99 per year for one device to 1.99 for 20 devices, while the Advanced tier spans from 9.99 to 1.99. Among these options, the Ultimate tier reviewed here presents the best value.
Getting Started With Malwarebytes Ultimate
Upon activating your Malwarebytes Ultimate subscription, you will likely be prompted to set up your identity protection immediately. However, this step can be deferred if time is limited. The online Secure Hub allows you to download Malwarebytes Premium for your current device or send a code to install it on another device. Your subscription permits protection for an unlimited number of Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS devices.
Features Shared With Malwarebytes Premium
On Windows, the features mirror those of Malwarebytes Premium Security, with the VPN component activated. The macOS version follows suit, and both editions exhibit a similar interface. The left menu provides options for Dashboard, Identity Protection, and Settings, while the Windows edition includes a Tools menu. The menu items are displayed as icons, with labels appearing upon hovering. A Trusted Advisor panel at the top right displays your security score, offering actionable insights to enhance it.
In addition to the menu and Trusted Advisor, users will find three panels labeled Scanner, Detection History, and Real-Time Protection. While even Malwarebytes Free includes these panels, Real-Time Protection is disabled in the free version. Below these panels, a larger section displays the status of the VPN component, including a map indicating your current connection.
Independent testing labs have not provided recent scores for Malwarebytes on either platform, but it achieved a near-perfect score in malware blocking tests on Windows. The Browser Guard component performed well against malware-hosting URLs and achieved a 96% detection rate in phishing tests across both platforms.
The Windows-only Tools page includes experimental tools that suggest creating a System Restore Point before use. These tools comprise configuration controls for managing the built-in Windows Firewall and a simple manager for startup programs. Users of Windows 11 also gain access to a collection of System Tweaks, which can be manually adjusted through Control Panel or Settings.
VPN Protection
While antivirus protection is essential for safeguarding files and documents on your device, it cannot protect data traversing the internet. This is where VPN protection becomes crucial. When connected through a VPN, your communications travel via an encrypted connection to the VPN server, ensuring that even on compromised networks, your traffic remains secure from prying eyes. Additionally, this setup masks your actual IP address, allowing you to access content that may be restricted in your location.
VPN Server Locations
A diverse selection of VPN server locations enhances your ability to spoof your location effectively. Malwarebytes provides options in over 60 cities across 34 countries, with nearly half located in Europe, a third in North America, and smaller percentages in Asia, Oceania, and South America. Notably, there are no server options in Africa, and regions like China, Russia, and Turkey are excluded, although Malwarebytes does maintain servers in Kyiv, Ukraine. For a more extensive global reach, services like ExpressVPN offer around 3,000 server locations in 105 countries, excelling in underserved areas.
VPN Settings
The primary setting in the VPN, aside from selecting a server location, is the straightforward on-and-off switch. Users can configure the VPN to activate automatically upon app launch or when connecting to unsecured networks, ensuring seamless protection. Enabling the kill switch feature is advisable to prevent unencrypted traffic leaks if the VPN connection drops.
Another notable setting, labeled Connection rules, refers to split tunneling, allowing users to define specific apps or websites that can bypass VPN protection. This feature is useful for applications that may not require protection or for optimizing speed. Users can specify apps, IP addresses, or ports to either bypass or enforce VPN protection.
Malwarebytes defaults to the WireGuard protocol, specifically the fast WireGuardNT version, with an option to switch to the proprietary MBtun variant. It is important to note that split tunneling only functions with the MBtun protocol. Advanced features such as multi-hop connections or masquerading as non-VPN traffic are not included.
Hands On With Malwarebytes VPN
The integration of the VPN into the Malwarebytes app simplifies the setup process. Users need only select a server location and activate the connection. For instance, connecting through Melbourne, Australia, successfully masked my location, allowing websites to perceive me as being in that city. DNS Leak Tests confirmed that the VPN securely handled DNS requests.
While a comprehensive review of VPN performance typically involves testing latency and speed impacts, this requires specific hardware not available in this context. Additionally, testing for access to streaming services like Netflix was not conducted, as Malwarebytes does not obfuscate its traffic.
The convenience of having VPN protection integrated within the Malwarebytes app is a significant advantage, allowing users to activate it as needed or configure it for automatic operation. While it may lack some advanced features sought by VPN enthusiasts, it meets the needs of most users effectively.
Protection on Android
Malwarebytes licenses extend to Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS devices. For mobile installation, users can scan a QR code, log in with their credentials, or generate a time-limited MB Code for quick activation. Following installation, users are greeted with a screen displaying their initial protection score, which often starts low.
Upon running a scan, users can quickly improve their score, as even minor actions can yield significant improvements. The app guides users through critical actions necessary for enhancing security, such as enabling Real-Time Protection and scheduling scans.
Android Lab Scores
While the testing of antivirus efficacy on Windows is common, Android security products are evaluated by independent labs as well. Malwarebytes achieved a perfect score in tests conducted by MRG-Effitas, while the AV-Test Institute awarded it top marks for performance. However, Malwarebytes did not appear in the latest AV-Comparatives report, where Bitdefender was the only product to secure a perfect score across all labs.
Android Tools
The Tools icon in the Android app reveals features such as Application Manager, Ransomware remediation, Privacy Checker, and Settings Checker. The Privacy Checker assesses app permissions, while the Ransomware remediation system offers unique triggers to regain control in the event of a lock screen ransomware attack.
VPN Protection for Android
As with other platforms, using the VPN on Android begins with selecting a server location and activating the connection. However, the settings available on Android are limited compared to desktop versions, focusing primarily on an always-on VPN option and split tunneling management.
Other Android Security Features
The main window of the Android app includes a variety of security features, such as digital footprint scanning for data breaches and access to identity theft remediation. Users can also toggle text protection, real-time protection, and safe browsing features. The Scam Guard chat assistant provides analysis for suspicious emails or texts, enhancing user awareness of potential scams.
Protection for iOS Devices
iOS is designed with robust defenses against malware, limiting the capabilities of security apps like Malwarebytes. Installation mirrors that of Android, involving QR code scanning and activation via an MB code. Users typically start with a low protection score, which can be improved by enabling Web Protection and Ad Blocking extensions in Safari.
While reaching a perfect score is relatively easy due to the limited protection available, the app does provide essential features such as Call Protection and Scam Guard, similar to its Android counterpart. For users with excess licenses, installing Malwarebytes on iOS devices can be beneficial, but it may not be necessary for all.
Identity Theft Protection
Identity theft poses a significant threat, potentially leading to severe consequences if someone misuses your identity. Malwarebytes incorporates monitoring systems to detect identity theft early and offers remediation services to restore your daily life if necessary. The identity protection system, licensed from TransUnion, is comparable to offerings from competitors like Avast One Platinum, Bitdefender Ultimate, and ESET Home Security Ultimate.
Upon activation, users are guided through the identity protection setup process, which involves entering personal information and authenticating via SSN and a texted code. The management of identity theft protection occurs through an online dashboard, providing access to various features, including lost wallet assistance and dedicated resolution specialist support.
Filling Up the Identity Vault
The Identity Vault allows users to enter personal information, including addresses, dates of birth, and social security numbers. Malwarebytes enables users to expand their vault with additional phone numbers and email addresses, ensuring comprehensive monitoring of personal data.
Dark Web Alerts
Malwarebytes alerts users if their personal information is found on the dark web, with notifications sent via email and displayed on the dashboard. While many alerts may pertain to outdated accounts, it is crucial to review each notification and take appropriate action to secure exposed accounts.
Tracking Anomalous Transactions
To detect potential identity theft, Malwarebytes tracks linked financial accounts and alerts users to suspicious transactions. Users can set thresholds for alerts based on transaction types, providing an additional layer of security against unauthorized activity.
Resources for Identity and Credit Protection
The Resources section of the dashboard offers valuable tools, including calculators for financial decisions, templates for consumer protection letters, and links to opt-out of junk mail and telemarketing.
Dedicated Resolution Specialist
Malwarebytes provides access to a dedicated resolution specialist for users who fall victim to identity theft, facilitating the remediation process. The service includes a million-dollar guarantee, with specific limits on recovery costs, ensuring users have support in navigating the aftermath of identity theft.
Personal Data Remover
In addition to identity theft protection, Malwarebytes offers a personal data removal service aimed at clearing users’ data from brokers and aggregators. The process involves entering personal details, after which the service initiates automated opt-out requests to brokers identified as holding user data. While not as comprehensive as dedicated solutions, this service provides a valuable means of enhancing privacy.
